Average Payroll and Timekeeping Clerks Salary in Alaska
Payroll and Timekeeping Clerks in Alaska earn an average annual salary of $58,660, which is notably higher than the national average of $56,360. This elevated compensation is often a reflection of Alaska's unique economic landscape, including its geographic isolation and higher operational costs, which necessitate competitive pay to attract and retain skilled administrative professionals.
Executive Summary
- Average Salary: $58,660 per year.
- Growth Trend: Salaries have shifted 12.4% ↗ over the last 5 years.
- Top Earners: Senior professionals (90th percentile) earn up to $78,220.
- Outlook: With a local workforce of 290 Payroll and Timekeeping Clerks, Alaska presents a stable, albeit not exceptionally concentrated, job market for this role. The Location Quotient of 0.9 suggests a presence that is close to the national average, indicating a steady demand that aligns with the needs of businesses operating within the state. The 0.915 jobs per 1,000 workers further supports the notion of a consistent, reliable employment environment for these essential administrative positions.
Salary Overview
The average Payroll and Timekeeping Clerks in Alaska earns+4.1%above the national average.
$28.2
$1,128
$4,888
Payroll and Timekeeping Clerks Salary Trends (2020-2024)
While specific historical data is not provided, it is reasonable to assume that salaries for Payroll and Timekeeping Clerks in Alaska have experienced steady growth over the past four years, mirroring national trends. Factors such as inflation, increasing demand for accurate payroll processing, and the need for specialized skills in compliance and software management likely contribute to upward pressure on wages, ensuring that compensation remains competitive within the state's economy.
Payroll and Timekeeping Clerks Salary Distribution in Alaska
Career progression for Payroll and Timekeeping Clerks in Alaska typically involves a significant salary increase with experience. Entry-level positions may start closer to the lower end of the pay scale, while senior clerks with extensive experience in complex payroll systems, regulatory compliance, and team leadership can command salaries well above the average. The percentile gaps in earnings clearly signify the career trajectory and the financial rewards associated with developing advanced expertise in the field.
| Experience Level | Market Percentile | Annual Wage | Hourly Rate |
|---|---|---|---|
| Associate / AnalystData entry, reporting, supporting senior staff. | 10% (Entry) | $42,470 | $20.4 |
| Senior AnalystIndependent analysis, forecasting, client interaction. | 25% (Junior) | $43,995 | $21.2 |
| ManagerOversees team, compliance, and project delivery. | 50% (Median) | $59,360 | $28.5 |
| Director / VPStrategic planning, budget ownership, risk management. | 75% (Senior) | $73,325 | $35.3 |
| Executive / PartnerC-level leadership. High-level strategy & relations. | 90% (Expert) | $78,220 | $37.6 |
Detailed Payroll and Timekeeping Clerks Market Analysis
Relocation Context
Nominal Salary
$58,660
Gross Pay
Real Wage (Purchasing Power)
$46,335
Adjusted for COL (126.6)
The average annual salary of $58,660 in Alaska must be viewed in the context of its Cost of Living Index of 126.6, which is substantially higher than the national average of 100. While the nominal salary appears higher than the national average, the increased cost of goods and services in Alaska means that the purchasing power of this salary may be closer to, or even slightly less than, what a similar salary would provide in a more affordable state. Careful budgeting is essential for those relocating to or working in Alaska.
Job Market Context
290
Total Jobs
0.915
Per 1K Jobs
0.9
Location Quotient
Alaska has 0.90x the national average concentration of Payroll and Timekeeping Clerks jobs. This means there are fewer opportunities per capita here compared to the U.S. average — competition for roles may be higher.
The Location Quotient of 0.9 for Payroll and Timekeeping Clerks in Alaska indicates that the concentration of these roles in the state is slightly below the national average. This suggests that while the profession is present and necessary, it is not disproportionately represented compared to other occupations. This can imply a moderately competitive market where employers seek qualified candidates, but the pool of available talent is not overly saturated, offering a balanced environment for job seekers.
Nearby Job Markets
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Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a Payroll and Timekeeping Clerks make in Alaska?
The median annual salary for a Payroll and Timekeeping Clerks in Alaska is $58,660. This typically ranges from $42,470 for entry-level positions to $78,220 for top-level roles.
How does the salary compare to the national average?
The average salary for this role in Alaska is 4.1% higher than the national median of $56,360.
Is Alaska a lucrative place for Payroll and Timekeeping Clerks?
Yes, with caveats.The average salary is higher than the national average, but the significantly higher cost of living in Alaska offsets some of this advantage. Therefore, while nominal pay is good, real purchasing power requires careful financial management.
Is Alaska a good place to live for Payroll and Timekeeping Clerks?
The Cost of Living Index in Alaska is 126.6. While higher than average, this often correlates with higher wages.
How does experience affect a Payroll and Timekeeping Clerk's salary in Alaska?
Experience significantly impacts earnings. Entry-level clerks earn less, while senior clerks with specialized skills and extensive knowledge of payroll systems and regulations can command substantially higher salaries, reflecting their value and expertise.
What is the job outlook for Payroll and Timekeeping Clerks in Alaska?
The job outlook appears stable, with a workforce size and concentration close to the national average. This suggests consistent demand for skilled payroll professionals to support Alaska's businesses.
Is the cost of living in Alaska a major factor for Payroll and Timekeeping Clerks?
Yes, the cost of living in Alaska is considerably higher than the national average. This means that while the salary may be higher nominally, the actual disposable income after covering essential expenses will be affected.
How does Alaska's job market for Payroll and Timekeeping Clerks compare to the rest of the US?
Alaska's market is slightly less concentrated than the national average, with a job density of 0.915 per 1,000 workers. The average salary is higher, but the cost of living is also significantly elevated.
Methodology: Salary data is derived from the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) OEWS 2024 release. Figures represent gross pay before taxes. Analysis includes 290 employees in the Alaska area with a job density of 0.915 per 1,000 jobs. Cost of Living data is estimated based on state and metro averages.
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Semantic Salary Analysis for Payroll and Timekeeping Clerks • Data source: BLS OEWS 2024 •Jobs in Alaska